What Do You Know About Taking Care of Your Back?

Oh, my aching back! Back pain is one of the most common complaints patients bring to the
doctor's office. But how serious is it? Take this quiz and see how much you know about back care.

1. It’s easy to find the cause of low back pain.

You didn't answer this question.

You answered

The correct answer is

The exact cause of low back pain can be hard to determine. In most cases, back pain may be a symptom of many causes. They may include overuse, injury, spinal degeneration, or slipped disk.

A. TrueB. False

2. Low back pain is a rare problem.

You didn't answer this question.

You answered

The correct answer is

Low back pain is one of the most significant health problems facing society today. The NIH notes that 8 out of 10 people have back pain at some time in their life. Back pain is a common cause of activity limits in children and adults of all ages.

A. TrueB. False

3. Which of the following is NOT used to help diagnose the cause of low back pain?

You didn't answer this question.

You answered

The correct answer is

This is a type of heart surgery. The other procedures may be used to help diagnose the cause of low back pain. Other tests that may be used include X-rays and a radionuclide bone scan.

A. CT scanB. MRIC. ElectromyographyD. CABG

4. Surgery is the main treatment for low back pain.

You didn't answer this question.

You answered

The correct answer is

There are many treatments for low back pain. Physical therapy, medicines, and changes in activity can all treat low back pain. Other ways to feel better include weight loss, stopping smoking, and using support devices advised by your doctor.

A. TrueB. False

5. Which of these is the proper way lift a heavy object?

You didn't answer this question.

You answered

The correct answer is

Stand with your feet wide and a slight bend at the hips and knees. Squat down and grab the object. Tighten your belly as you lift and keep your back flat. Keep the heavy object close to your body. Don't hold your breath.

A. Squat and keep your back flatB. Squat and keep your back roundedC. Bend at the waist and flex your knees as you liftD. Bend at the waist and keep your knees straight as you lift

6. Which position helps your back when you sleep?

You didn't answer this question.

You answered

The correct answer is

Sleep with your knees slightly bent and drawn up toward your chest. If you sleep on your back, place a pillow under your knees. Don’t sleep on your stomach.

A. Lying on your stomachB. Lying on your back with your knees out straightC. Lying on your side with a pillow between your kneesD. Sitting up in a chair

7. When sitting down, keep your knees slightly higher than your hips.

You didn't answer this question.

You answered

The correct answer is

Sit in chairs that support your back. Use a low-back support, if needed. Keep your knees a little higher than your hips. If necessary, use a low stool to raise your feet, so they are resting on a solid surface.